Miami, FL – April 16th, 2025 – OysterLink data, combined with search trends, shows summer job interest hitting a new record high in late March 2025 and early April.
While May remains the traditional peak, March and April 2025 saw record-high interest, signaling that job seekers are beginning their searches earlier than in previous years. Google Trends data supports this surge: The search popularity score for summer jobs in mid-April 2025 is approximately 86.
For comparison, that’s about 18% higher than the same time last year, 30% higher than two years ago and nearly 59% higher than three years ago. For all states, the District of Columbia had the highest search popularity score at 100.
The hospitality industry is one of the largest employers of seasonal workers, as per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is especially the case during peak travel seasons, such as summer or winter holidays.
“We see this as a strong indicator that the summer job market is becoming more competitive than ever,” said Milos Eric, Co-Founder and General Manager of OysterLink. “Hospitality businesses should prepare early and sufficiently, as this is the best time to hire staff, including impressionable young talent.”
Gen Z Leads the Summer Job Market
Data from OysterLink shows that Gen Z (ages 18-24) continues to be a dominant force in the summer job market, particularly in hospitality and seasonal roles. This age group accounted for 29.52% of all job applicants on OysterLink, followed by the 25-34 and 35-44 age groups, respectively.
This aligns with the broader trend of younger workers seeking flexible and seasonal employment opportunities, with many turning to the hospitality sector to gain work experience or supplement their income during the summer months.
Gen Z workers are known for their adaptability, tech-savviness and interest in jobs that offer flexibility and work-life balance. The hospitality sector, which often requires shift work and offers various roles in customer service, food and beverage and event management, is well suited to meet the needs of this generation.
Best-Paying Summer Hospitality Jobs in 2025
As job seekers begin their search for the best-paying summer positions, the hospitality industry offers a range of opportunities. Here are some of the top-paying hospitality positions in the summer of 2025.
Bartenders
Bartenders in busy tourist destinations or high-end venues are among the highest earners in the hospitality sector during the summer months. While hourly rates for Bartenders typically range from $15 to $20, tips can push their total hourly earnings to $25 or more, depending on the location and the establishment’s clients.
Line Cooks
As restaurants and resorts ramp up for the summer rush, the demand for experienced Line Cooks soars. In high-end restaurants and tourist hotspots, line cooks can earn $18-$22 per hour, with opportunities for overtime and performance-based bonuses.
Concierges and Front Desk Agents
These roles are essential for delivering exceptional guest experiences, and they are well compensated during peak seasons. Concierges and Front Desk Agents can expect to earn $16–$20 per hour, with additional perks such as free meals, discounted stays and access to exclusive hotel amenities.
Event Servers and Banquet Staff
With weddings, corporate events and large conferences scheduled throughout the summer, Event Servers and Banquet Staff are in high demand. These roles often come with an hourly rate of $20 or more, plus tips based on the scale of the event.
Housekeepers
Housekeepers in high-demand tourist areas can earn $15–$18 per hour, with some hotels offering additional incentives, such as bonus payments or lodging discounts. This role can offer steady work during the summer season in hotels.
Tour Guides and Activity Coordinators
Tour Guides in popular vacation destinations can earn between $18 and $22 per hour, with the potential for tips depending on the quality of their service. These roles offer the added benefit of interacting with guests and showcasing local attractions.
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About OysterLink
OysterLink is a job platform dedicated to the restaurant and hospitality industry, providing career opportunities, market insights and expert interviews. With over 340,000 monthly visitors and growing, OysterLink helps professionals navigate industry trends and connect with top employers.
For more information or to post a job, visit OysterLink or contact PR Representative Ana at [email protected].
